Working while traveling is a common selling point for considering a career on a cruise ship. However, the promise of adventure while earning a living entails a unique and challenging lifestyle aboard the cruise ship. Long hours of hard work, no days off for a 6-8 month contract, and erratic sleeping patterns are a few challenges one must fully accept before embarking.

If you're one of the many people across the globe working at sea, then you're probably well used to working away from home. Working at sea can be exciting and an amazing career opportunity that can be both personally and financially rewarding.

Cruise ship crew members are not exempt from the possibility of termination, much like employees in any other profession, whether on land or at sea. It is widely recognized that the turnover rate among cruise ship employees is notably higher compared to many other industries. While numerous factors may lead crew members to leave their positions voluntarily, cruise lines have implemented strict rules and regulations designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both passengers and crew.

If you are a new sign-on about to join the vessel for the very first time, read this article carefully. About a week ago, I was re-hired to work on a cruis eship. Even I kind of knew what to expect; the bitter reality of the seaman life never fails to disappoint you.

The Arrival in Miami

Crew members live on cruise ships while working onboard, and they have an entire crew area of the ship just for them. In some cases, crew areas are a lot like guest areas. Some staff and officers have guest privileges, but not the crew members, so cruise lines dedicate certain parts of the ship just for crew. The space reserved for crew members will vary depending on the ship's size and age. Some of the newer vessels have upgraded facilities.

Before purchasing a particular item on the cruise ship, do a little research about it. Crew members on board the vessel are even entitled to further discounts in some ports of call. Of course, if you are a crew member on board the cruise ship, you are entitled to some jewelry at discounted prices.

Never say this is my last contract... I was one of those people who always used to say: I am done with cruise ships... This lifestyle is not for me... Yet...

The right attitude can open many doors in your life. It also applies in the cruise ship industry, where I have witnessed that people with a great, positive attitude can progress their careers in a much shorter period. 

Among many other qualities that crew members can have, listening is one of the most important. We all have things to say. We all tend to complain, talk, and explain how and why things should be done, but only a few can actively listen. Everyone knows how to talk, but only a few people know how to listen actively. When I say listen, I mean actively listening.